9 Best Online Data Science Degrees 2025
The best online data science degrees in the U.S. provide students with advantages like flexible courses, affordable tuition, and specialization options.
The best data science degree programs in the U.S. provide a flexible and convenient way to advance your career and achieve your goals online.
With a focus on essential skills, such as data analysis, machine learning, and data engineering, these programs can equip students with the tools they need to succeed in data science jobs. Graduates become data scientists, data analysts, and cybersecurity specialists, among many others.
Whether you're looking for flexible scheduling options or specialized concentrations, these programs cater to your needs and learning preferences.
Best Online Data Science Degree Programs
Finding the right online degree program can be key to advancing your career in this fast-growing field. These top U.S. schools provide accredited programs, as well as affordable online data science degree programs, to help you further your education.
Some schools may also offer online data science master's programs for those who want to pursue grad school after they complete a bachelor's degree.
1. Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a flexible online data science program that includes core courses in areas like data visualization, Python, and algorithms. Students can choose from various elective courses, such as data engineering and data mining, to help them align their studies with their interests and career goals.
The program's flexibility in scheduling and accelerated course options allow online students to balance their studies with work or other personal commitments and finish their degree at their own pace.
2. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University provides a comprehensive online bachelor's program that focuses on core areas of data science such as data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Students can customize their learning experience by selecting a concentration, like project management for STEM, to enhance their abilities and credentials.
3. Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University's accredited online data science program involves advanced coursework covering computer science, applied statistics, and mathematics. Students have6 flexibility to take classes part-time, making it a great choice for working professionals.
If you already have a bachelor's degree and want to pursue an online data science master's program, Johns Hopkins University's graduate programs allow students to further their education with a master's in applied data science.
4. Maryville University
Maryville University's data science bachelor's degree emphasizes the practical applications of computer science, math, and economics. It offers flexibility and affordability, with online coursework that covers key data science topics like predictive modeling and math modeling.
Students can benefit from a well-rounded learning experience with courses in big data analytics, linear algebra, and programming languages like SQL. The university also has an accelerated online data science master's degree program for its bachelor's in data science graduates.
5. Saint Louis University
The online bachelor's in data science program at Saint Louis University prepares students for their careers by providing hands-on experience and projects that work with real-world problems and data sets.
The comprehensive capstone project helps graduates build a portfolio that demonstrates knowledge and skills in areas like data analysis, decision-making, and deep learning. This can enhance their resumes and help them stand out in the job market.
6. Liberty University
The online data science program at Liberty University offers flexible scheduling, with a range of financial aid options to help make the program more affordable. The flexible transfer credit policy allows students to bring in coursework to save money and earn their degrees faster.
The program, which covers algorithms, machine learning, and data sets, also includes electives like cybersecurity and data engineering so the learners can expand their knowledge in specialized areas.
7. University of California
The data science bachelor's program at the University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA) provides students with a strong foundation in mathematics, statistical analysis, and probability. The coursework is designed to challenge students by giving them the ability to choose from elective courses in areas like applied numerical methods, probability theory, and stochastic processes.
8. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) accredited online data science program is among the most prestigious. It offers advanced coursework in programming, natural language processing, statistical modeling, and computational thinking. Students learn to use statistical evidence to solve problems and create mathematical models with various techniques.
MIT's data science program equips students with the skills they need to excel in their careers, and it's offered completely online so students can work at their own pace.
9. University of Illinois
The University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign provides an affordable online data science program that includes core courses in data engineering, algorithms, and machine learning. The flexible online format is designed for working professionals, with full-time and part-time study options.
With concentrations in disciplines such as cybersecurity and data analysis, students can customize their degrees to meet their career goals.
FAQs About Online Bachelor's Degrees in Data Science
Choosing the right online data science degree can be challenging, but understanding your options can help guide your search and make your decision easier.
How Do I Choose the Best Online Data Science Degree Program?
To choose the best data science degree program, consider your personal and career goals. For example, if you want a program that allows you to work at your own pace or balance other commitments, look for programs that offer part-time and full-time options.
If you have specific career goals, such as becoming a data engineer or data analyst, choose a program with relevant specializations or concentrations. If you want to avoid student debt, look for schools like Bellevue University that offer affordable tuition rates and financial aid options.
Additionally, it is also important to check the accreditation status of the school to ensure you are choosing a reputable online data science program. Some schools have admission requirements that involve taking prerequisites or submitting application materials like GRE scores or letters of recommendation.
Is an Online Data Science Degree Worth It?
Yes, a data science degree can be worth it because it opens doors to numerous career opportunities in tech fields, such as machine learning, data engineering, and artificial intelligence. Students gain valuable skills in data analysis, algorithms, and decision-making, making them highly competitive in the job market after graduation.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Degree in Data Science?
The time it takes to complete an online data science degree varies depending on the program and whether you are taking in-person or online courses. Many online programs are designed to be faster than traditional on-campus options because they let students work at their own pace.
If you choose an accelerated program or have previous college credits, you could complete your degree in as little as two years. Some programs also offer degree completion options for students with prior higher education experience, helping you finish faster.